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Quebrada de Humahuaca
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The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a spectacular and colorful mountain valley located in the province of Jujuy, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the cultural landscape category. This 155-kilometer-long depression, traversed by the Grande River, has been an essential commercial and cultural route for millennia between the high Andean region and the warm valleys. It is famous for its multicolored mountains, such as the 'Cerro de los Siete Colores' in Purmamarca and the 'Serranía de Hornocal' in Humahuaca, whose geological strata reveal millions of years of Earth's history. The Quebrada is home to photogenic colonial villages, historic churches, and pre-Inca ruins (pucarás), keeping alive ancestral traditions and popular festivals that attract thousands of visitors annually.
- Location: Argentina
- Top sights: Reloj San Francisco Solano · Museo Arqueológico Municipal · Condor de metal
- Nearby: Iruya (23 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 9 | 11 | 12 |
| Rain mm | 134 | 133 | 100 | 39 | 10 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 8 | 37 | 55 | 124 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The colorful valley is generally accessed via the well-maintained national highway running straight through the region. Scheduled buses regularly connect the most important historical settlements.
Best season
Spring and autumn typically offer the most pleasant climate for general exploration. The summer months, by contrast, can become very hot and occasionally bring sudden, heavy downpours.
Terrain & paths
The terrain includes sometimes dusty, rocky paths that lead up to various striking viewpoints. The base elevation of the valley is already considerable, making simple walking somewhat tiring.
What to bring
Good walking shoes, strong UV protection, and a wide hat are mandatory under the intense high-altitude sun. Since temperatures drop sharply in the evening, warm layers are highly recommended.
Parking
In the small villages of the valley, designated parking lots are usually found near the central squares. It is highly advisable to leave your car there and thoroughly explore the towns on foot.
Safety
Due to the considerable altitude, you should allow yourself sufficient time to acclimatize to completely avoid discomfort. Drink plenty of water and actively avoid physical overexertion.
Time needed
To properly experience the various facets and villages of this extensive valley at a relaxed pace, you typically plan for one to two full days. Short stops generally take about an hour each.
Geography
Facts
- The valley is 155 km long and is located at over 2,000 m altitude.
- The Hill of Seven Colors displays sediments from different geological periods.
- Pucará de Tilcara is the most important archaeological site in the valley.
- Humahuaca is the largest town and the historical center of the region.
- It is famous for its Carnival, full of indigenous symbolism.
- Route 9 runs the entire length of the Quebrada, offering panoramic views.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Quebrada de Humahuaca (10)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Quebrada de Humahuaca so famous?
Because of its spectacular geological colors and rich cultural history.
Should one book a guided tour?
Yes, guides provide deeper insights into indigenous culture and history.
How is the weather there?
Dry and sunny, but at night it can get very cold at high altitude.
What is a must-see there?
The 'Hill of Seven Colors' (Cerro de los Siete Colores) in Purmamarca.
Is it well-suited for children?
Yes, there are many accessible viewpoints, but mind the altitude.
Quebrada de Humahuaca: where is it located?
Quebrada de Humahuaca is located in Argentina.
Quebrada de Humahuaca: what is there to see?
Highlights include Reloj San Francisco Solano, Museo Arqueológico Municipal, Condor de metal.
Quebrada de Humahuaca: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Quebrada de Humahuaca: why is it worth visiting?
The Quebrada de Humahuaca is a spectacular and colorful mountain valley located in the province of Jujuy, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the cultural landscape category.
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Iruya
An isolated Andean village seemingly suspended on a steep mountainside, known for its indigenous culture.
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The capital of Jujuy province, a high-altitude city surrounded by colorful Andean mountains and indigenous culture.
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A city known for its historical iron and steel industrial activity in the Jujuy valley.
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History & landmarks
Pucará de Tilcara
A restored pre-Inca fortress located in the dramatic landscape of Tilcara.
San José de Tilcara
San José de Tilcara is an archaeologically significant town in the Quebrada de Humahuaca, famous for the Pucará fortress ruins.
Purmamarca
Purmamarca is a small Andean village at the base of the Hill of Seven Colors, featuring traditional adobe architecture and a well-known a…
La Quiaca
La Quiaca is a border town with Bolivia in the Puna region, marking the northern end of National Route 40.
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